Concept, Narrative, and Technology: Is This the New Approach to Creative Technology?

TL;DR: This article explores the significant implications of rapid innovation on both our digital and physical worlds. Emphasizing the intertwined roles of concept, narrative, and technology, I argue that as Creative Technologists, we must excel in narrating the future's potential impacts on today's world. It's about crafting compelling stories that bridge the gap between emerging technologies and their real-world implications, urging us to tell better stories about the transformative power of what we envision for the future."

The acceleration of innovation

The acceleration of innovation and technological advancements is happening at a rate never before seen in the history of the world. With this rapid pace, the way we create, think, and collaborate is set to change. Are you ready?

This isn't just a compelling narrative; it's an undeniable fact. Cast your mind back to when GPT-1 was launched in 2018. The average citizen probably didn't have a clue what it was or what it could do, and I believe this still stands in 2024.

We've focused too much on the technical aspect and not enough on telling the story of why these advancements have transformative power and the problems they will solve. Unfortunately, we've opted for a functional narrative as opposed to an emotional one, even the name GPT isn't very sexy.

Why Are Stories So Important?

Stories have always held immense power to convey messages that allow you not only to connect with your mind but with your heart too. Disney does this very well; in one moment, you're laughing, then you're crying, then laughing again.

We need to take this narrative-based approach when talking about creative tech projects, as opposed to focusing solely on the tech. This will not diminish the tech but will allow for a deeper connection and engagement.

Creative Technology Tool Belt

As Creative Technologists, we can no longer rely on just creating cool things. We need to showcase the value of the things we create to a business. We need to "convince" other departments of the benefits of a Creative Technology mindset. For example, we are very adaptable at any part of the process, we can learn new skills with ease, we embrace failure as an opportunity to learn, and we constantly look into the future.

Creative Technologists can pivot and navigate what's coming on the horizon through experimentation and R&D. This enables me to remain open to learning new skills. The future is unknown; this will always be true. However, I believe that given the current trajectory of available new tools, the convergence of skills and abilities is going to move closer and closer.

"No longer can someone say they can't code or design. We're now living in a time where if you can imagine it, you can create it.

This is huge. Some industries will feel the effects of this if they don't pivot, but the discipline of Creative Technology has always been set up for the future.

Don't just be an inventor of technology but become a storyteller

In the intersection of concept, narrative, and technology, each element is crucial to the other's success. A concept without a narrative might fail to capture interest, just as a story without a feasible concept lacks substance. Similarly, having both a concept and a narrative without the technical means to realize it falls short. The key lies in harmonizing these elements, crafting stories that not only enlighten but also engage the world with the pace of technological innovation. This balance is not just vital—it's transformative, urging us to not only understand but also feel the impact of our rapidly advancing world.